This was just for fun. I make it a point to draw something everyday.
Usually I’m working on a project or specific skill. Some days I just take a break & draw for fun. This was one of those days.
Using Reference images.
I used a reference image for this drawing. It is a different skill than drawing from memory or studied proportions. The idea in using an image as a model is that you are duplicating shape placement. The reference image gives you information to duplicate or imitate in some way.
It’s really just drawing a shape in a similar proportion. Feel free to change it up & have fun. Simply using an image for ideas is a great way to create something new & add to your memory bank for later.
Specific
If you are drawing a specific person that you want to be identified as the person you drew, then take a little more time in observing their features. Do several preliminary drawings of their features. Try to see them from different angles to understand how they come together in identifying places like the eyes. Look for unique & defining aspects of their face & body.
Of course, if you are drawing a cartoon of someone this is as simple as the overall shapes and common clothing. Does the person always wear square glasses or a favorite jacket? Is there a defining hairstyle or lack of hair?
Just for fun
Anyway, this was just for fun. I draw as a break from drawing. I also do quick easy sketches like this on days that I haven’t done much else & want to simply be able to say I did draw something today. So, I drew several scribbling screams before and after this & it turned into an exercise in expression & line direction.
Use references. Have fun scribbling. Try again to improve the skills you want to develop. I tell myself these things.
Complements
Also, when you see something or someone that inspires you, use that energy to create something. You don’t have to share your practice art with anyone, but sometimes others get excited when they see your work & it can encourage you even more. Other peoples
If you use a specific person or place as a reference it can be fun to share with them. You can do this in person or online, such as by a restaurant’s email if you like the architecture of their building. If someone inspires you & you have the chance to tell them, it might brighten their day.
I rarely draw someone to look specifically like the individual, but on occasion I’m caught by someone’s appearance & want to try and capture their look.
Though, I often hesitate to share a compliment. I think that someone will question my intentions or just think that it’s odd that I’m interested in them & worry that I might make them feel self-conscious. Though, someone once told me that “If you have something nice to say to someone, it belongs to them & you should if able give it to them.” This doesn’t always turn out well & I often say too much or word things poorly, but I feel worse for not saying anything at all than I do about saying something wrong.
-James